A 22-year-old woman, described by her family as "caring, thoughtful, and wonderful," died Sunday following a three-vehicle collision in Northumbria. Erin Bennett, who had recently earned a degree in criminology and psychology, had just accepted her "dream job" and was preparing to begin training with Northumbria Police to become a detective.
Emergency services were dispatched to the A1 near Felton shortly after 12:15 p.m. following the incident. Northumbria Police have launched an investigation and are appealing for witnesses, particularly those with CCTV or dashcam footage from the area around the time of the collision, to come forward.
Bennett's family stated that their "whole world has been shattered beyond belief" by her loss. They described her as "the most amazing beautiful woman" and a "big sister and daughter" who also served as their "best friend." They noted her "contagious smile" and the excitement she had for her future in law enforcement. Her boyfriend, Craig, also shared a tribute, calling her "the most beautiful, amazing and loveable girlfriend in the world" and "the light of my life."
Police are asking anyone with information to contact them via direct message on social media, through their website's live chat and report forms, or by calling 101 and quoting reference number NP-20261018-0441. Authorities have requested privacy for the family during this time.